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Occam · Dec 31, 2006, 05:42 pm

First, I think the premise is incomplete, at the very least. While there may be a genetic component, it seems that various influences during the development of the fetus can modify the estrogen/androgen ratios to which it's exposed. A genetically male fetus that is exposed to a high level of estrogens and low level of testosterone will be affected by this.

Since it's been shown that the male and female brains develop differently it would be reasonable to assume that a male exposed to the opposite sex's hormones could be modified to behave in a more female fashion, and be attracted to other males. A similar situation would occur in female fetuses.

So, I doubt that merely selecting for the "right" genes would have much effect on the ratio of homo vs hetero sexuals.

In addition, I think humans are much more flexible in their behavior. Many who have demonstrated being straight adopt homosexual activities when jailed. Similarly, many heterosexuals who participate in multiple partner sessions will perform acts that would normally be attributed to homosexuals.

However, the important thing is not the sexual activity, but which gender the person prefers to bond with. And, I don't see that as destructive to the person or to society so I don't see any reason for anyone to want to control this, be it parents, government, society, etc.

Occam

Dec 31, 2006, 05:42 pm	#41 (permalink) (top)
Occam Molten Ash Posts: 72	First, I think the premise is incomplete, at the very least. While there may be a genetic component, it seems that various influences during the development of the fetus can modify the estrogen/androgen ratios to which it's exposed. A genetically male fetus that is exposed to a high level of estrogens and low level of testosterone will be affected by this. Since it's been shown that the male and female brains develop differently it would be reasonable to assume that a male exposed to the opposite sex's hormones could be modified to behave in a more female fashion, and be attracted to other males. A similar situation would occur in female fetuses. So, I doubt that merely selecting for the "right" genes would have much effect on the ratio of homo vs hetero sexuals. In addition, I think humans are much more flexible in their behavior. Many who have demonstrated being straight adopt homosexual activities when jailed. Similarly, many heterosexuals who participate in multiple partner sessions will perform acts that would normally be attributed to homosexuals. However, the important thing is not the sexual activity, but which gender the person prefers to bond with. And, I don't see that as destructive to the person or to society so I don't see any reason for anyone to want to control this, be it parents, government, society, etc. Occam